Oliver snubbed by HOF voters

December 8, 2008by rob biertempfel

LAS VEGAS — The results of the Veterans Committee ballot were just announced, and none of the 10 post-1942 candidates were elected to the Hall of Fame.

Former Pirates outfielder Al Oliver received nine votes (14.1 percent). The top vote-getter was Ron Santo (39 votes, 60.9 percent). A candidate needed support from 75 percent of the electorate to gain entry.

This is the fourth ballot by the Veterans Committee, which has never elected anyone. It’s been suggested that, with the Veterans Committee turning down the same candidates every time, it’s time to discontinue the process.

“I feel there are some guys out there who belong in the Hall of Fame,” Veterans Committee voter Joe Morgan said. “All the guys feel that way. The problem is, we can’t find 75 percent who feel one (particular) guy belongs in the Hall of Fame.”